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DNR Reminds Early Season Trout Anglers about Invasive Species Published on 01/23/2023 under News

Early trout season is underway and the DNR is using the opener as another reminder for anglers to take steps to avoid spreading invasive species.

They note that if care is not taken, invasive species can accidentally be transferred to different bodies of water. That's because some small animals, eggs, seeds, and fragments of invasive plants can survive throughout winter under the ice.

The DNR highlighted New Zealand mudsnails which have one of the highest potentials of spreading from one water to another. Only 4-6 millimeters in length, they can easily get stuck in the mud and picked up on boots, waders and gear. Felt-soled boots are particularly susceptible to these snails as they can lodge into and under the felt. The snails can live in the mud along the shore, so they can be spread without ever stepping foot into the water.

Anglers can make a difference with a few preventative steps, largely through cleaning fishing gear. The cold Wisconsin winters may help. The DNR encourages anglers to leave fishing gear where it can freeze for 8 hours or more. Otherwise anglers can clean gear by steam or a soak in hot (140 degree) water or in water with a cleaning solution.

Extra cautious trout anglers can also switch to a new set of gear when visiting multiple streams on the same trip.

As for the early trout season in our area:

•Lincoln County-streams west of Highway 51 and the Prairie River downstream of County J
•Oneida County-streams west of Highway 51 and the Bearskin Creek
•Langlade County-the Wolf River
•Vilas County-Mishonagon Creek

In Other News

Heavy Southbound Traffic Expected Monday

Published on 05/25/2026 under News After crowded roads Friday evening, officials are anticipating another busy travel day Monday following the long holiday weekend. While the Northwoods traffic may be better spaced Monday than the late Friday rush, southbound traffic is still expected to be heavy at times. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, buckle up, and avoid distractions. It may also save motorists some time by checking out alternative routes or traveling at non-peak hours. To accommodate the holiday traffic, the Department of Transportation has paused most of their road construction projects for the long weekend. That includes temporarily reopening many of the work zones that have been closed in recent weeks. This includes Highway 51 north of Tomahawk and in Minocqua. Those projects are expected to resume on Tuesday morning.

Published on 05/25/2026 under News As ATV and UTV riders hit the trails for Memorial Day weekend and throughout the summer, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding riders to put safety first. The DNR says Wisconsin has already seen 14 ATV and UTV fatalities this year, including nine on public roadways. Officials say many serious crashes involve riders not wearing helmets or seatbelts. The DNR is also reminding riders about new ATV and UTV regulations taking effect June 1, including a requirement that all UTV operators and passengers wear seatbelts. DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator Lt. Jacob Holsclaw says helmets and seatbelts have been proven to reduce serious injuries and save lives, especially when used together. Officials also warn that speed, alcohol, and careless driving continue to be leading causes of crashes. Two thirds of fatal crashes have occurred on public roads. Riders are also encouraged to check that trails and road routes are open before heading out and to follow all posted traffic laws and safety regulations. • When traveling on routes, operate in single file on the extreme right side of the traffic lane. • Keep headlights on at all times. • Follow speed limits and regulatory signs. • Use directionals or hand signals.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News Memorial Day weekend in Tomahawk means the return of the Main Street Memories Car Show. Originally started by a local car club, the event was later taken over by Tomahawk Main Street, which has continued the tradition while introducing small changes to keep the show fresh and exciting. As we previewed Thursday, this year's show is dedicated to founder and longtime participant Swede Jorgensen. Main Street Director Jennifer Turkiewicz took some time out from preparations to discuss the 32nd edition of the Car Show. She was quick to credit the many volunteers, participants, and attendees who have helped make the show a success over the past three decades. Last year's event featured more than 325 vehicles, which Turkiewicz admitted made for a tight fit. While many car shows are in fields or parking lots, Tomahawk's offers a scenic setting in the historic downtown district.. Turkiewicz added that vehicle owners also appreciate the paved streets, which help keep their chrome polished and clean. Turkiewicz said they traditionally have a big age range, referring to both the people and the cars. And because the Main Street Memories Car Show doesn't group by class or era, you might find a 1935 Ford could be parked next to a brand-new Corvette. In addition to traditional classics, the show has also featured TV- or movie-inspired vehicles such as the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, the Batmobile, the "Dukes of Hazzard" General Lee, and Jurassic Park Jeep. Turkiewicz says the show is very family-friendly and gives visitors the chance to admire unique vehicles, learn more about them, and meet owners who enjoy sharing the stories behind their cars. And while the vehicles are the main attraction, Turkiewicz says there's plenty for non-car enthusiasts to enjoy as well. The event also includes a craft fair, vendors, kids activities and entertainment complementing the downtown restaurants and shops. The Main Street Memories Car Show takes place Sunday throughout the Tomahawk Main Street District, rain or shine.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News Another group of Tomahawk High School students have reached a milestone in their educational journey...it's time for graduation. Ninety Three THS seniors will cross the stage this evening to receive their diplomas. It the culmination of a busy few weeks for the soon-to-be-graduates. They've finished finals, attended their senior class trip, held senior awards night, and completed a community service project. It's all led to the final day of class and tonight's commencement ceremony. Learning a bit about the Class of 2026: their motto is "Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up."; class song is 'Hey Ya' by OutKast as their class song. Midnight blue and the hydrangea are the class color and class flower respectively. Michael Samundsen was named the 2026 Valedictorian with Edwin Riese as Salutatorian.. Each is expected to address their fellow graduates during this evening's program. Rounding out the Top 10, students graduating with honors include: Freya Alberg, Faith Derleth, Ethan Gibeault, Emma Hoff, Logan Norman, Nathan Norman, Sophie Olsen and Galen Schmidt. As for tonight's graduation ceremony, tickets are not required. Doors open at 6pm, the program begins at 7pm. While the ceremony won't be live-streamed, the district says it will be recorded and posted to the their YouTube channel.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News Northwoods motorists may want to tap the brakes this weekend as you may be watched from above. The Wisconsin State Patrol announced upcoming aerial enforcement plans which will include Highway 51 in Oneida County on Friday. According to the announcement, it's much easier for troopers to spot drivers who are speeding or driving aggressively from the air. When a pilot observes a violation, they communicate with ground-based units to initiate a traffic stop. The Wisconsin State Patrol says that the aerial enforcement missions are publicly announced to improve public safety through voluntary compliance rather than to simply stop drivers and handing out citations. The eye in the sky has been used in various regions around the state throughout this week.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News As Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer travel season, state officials are reminding Wisconsinites to keep safety in mind, both on the roads and on the water. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Department of Natural Resources are teaming up with a new campaign "Drive safe. Tow safe. Boat safe." As heavy holiday traffic and busy boat launches are expected, officials say a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe this summer. Drivers are encouraged to secure trailers and cargo before traveling. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says, "Even if you are a seasoned traveler or have towed a trailer for years, going through a safety checklist every time before hitting the road is still critical at every experience level to keep our roads safe." Once on the road, Officials say distracted driving, speeding and impaired driving remain top causes of summer crashes, especially with more drivers towing boats and campers. The DNR is also urging boaters to wear life jackets, stay sober and check weather conditions before heading out. They encourage all travelers and outdoor enthusiasts to safely and respectfully share the state's roads, launches and waters with others.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News Kids in Rhinelander will soon have a new way to beat the summer heat. After several years of fundraising and construction, The Kiwanis Club of Rhinelander and the City of Rhinelander are set to host the grand opening of the new Vancos Family Splash Pad at Hodag Park. The project was made possible through donations, volunteers and community partnerships. Kiwanis Club President Kerry Brekke says "This project represents what can happen when a community comes together to invest in its families and future." Brekke added the splash pad is an investment in local families and a space designed to create lasting memories for years to come. To kick off the summer season, they're inviting the community to a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday afternoon at 1pm where they'll celebrate the new play area.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News As many prepare for cookouts and the unofficial start of summer, communities across the Northwoods are also preparing to honor the true meaning of Memorial Day remembering the men and women who gave their lives in military service. Among the area observances drawing growing attention is the annual Saturday ceremony at Union Grove Cemetery in Harshaw. What began years ago as a small gathering has grown into a well-attended tradition, bringing hundreds to the rural cemetery each Memorial Day weekend. Organizers have once again been preparing the grounds ahead of this year's ceremony, which continues to feature the popular Einar Ingman motorcycle procession traveling from Tomahawk to Union Grove which has become a meaningful part of the annual observance in memory of the Medal of Honor recipient. A number of Memorial Day ceremonies are planned throughout the Northwoods this weekend, with more information available on the WJJQ Community Calendar.

Published on 05/22/2026 under News Travelers heading to and from the Northwoods have another flight option this summer. United Airlines has brought back its seasonal summer service between Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport and Chicago O'Hare Airport, with the first flights taking off Thursday. Airport officials expressed excitement about the return of the United Express flights, noting that it provides passengers with more choices in both destinations and carriers by expanding beyond the year-round Delta flights to Minneapolis-St. Paul. Flights to O'Hare will operate Friday through Monday, with one flight scheduled each day. The seasonal service will be operated by SkyWest Airlines.

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